Cyrus Wilson at his parole hearing in April
One small update to the Tennessee Department of Correction's website early this morning changed the lives of Cyrus Wilson and his entire family.
In the spot reserved for the result of Wilson's parole hearings — he had one in April and another last week — a new word appeared: "PAROLE." After one Tennessee Board of Parole member recommended his release last week, a majority of the remaining members agreed, clearing the way for Wilson, now 45, to leave prison after 27 years. He was convicted in 1994 for the murder of Christopher Luckett. It's a crime Wilson has always insisted he did not commit.
And evidence, or lack thereof, backs Wilson up. The case against him has fallen apart in the decades since he was arrested at age 18. The witnesses who testified against him in 1994 — all juveniles at the time — have since recanted, saying they were pressured by police and prosecutors.
His innocence claim put Wilson in a difficult spot when it came to appearing before the parole board — he could not express remorse for a crime he says he did not commit. He did, however, have ample evidence of his personal growth in prison, and dozens of supporters on hand to illustrate the community that was waiting to welcome him back. American Baptist College president Forrest Harris has pledged to give Wilson a scholarship to the school upon his release.
Former Metro Public Defender Dawn Deaner represented Wilson at his parole hearings.
"All I can say today is I'm grateful to the board, and so happy for Cyrus, his family, and the community that fought for them," Deaner tells the Scene. "Can't wait to see Cyrus home."
Wilson's wife, Casey Wilson, sent a statement on behalf of the family:
"Cyrus and I would like to thank all of our family, friends and supporters for all of their prayers, letters of support and for showing up for Cyrus. We are overjoyed that Cyrus will be home. It has been an emotional morning for certain and we are truly grateful for all of the love and support we have received from our community."
